Research Projects
1. Novel stress-tolerant mechanisms of yeast cells and their applications for breeding of industrial yeast
We are interested in cellular response and adaptation to environmental stresses using the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is an important microorganism in basic science as a model for higher eukaryotes. Yeast is also a useful microbe in the fermentation industry for the production of breads, alcoholic beverages and bioethanol. During fermentation, yeast cells are exposed to various stresses, including ethanol, high temperature, desiccation and osmotic pressure. Such stresses induce protein denaturation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and lead to growth inhibition or cell death. In terms of industrial application, stress tolerance is the key for yeast cells. We analyze novel stress-tolerant mechanisms of yeast as listed below.
